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The Bookish Romance #1
The Bookish Bandit
“Steal my heart, not my pages.”
Aspiring author Charlie Blaire never expected to stumble across her own novel at her favorite bookstore. Except this novel isn’t hers. Published under someone else’s name, the book she wrote to cope with the loss of her missionary parents is already topping charts. Irate, confused, and determined to regain the rights to her book, Charlie leaves her idyllic life in the countryside of Vermont to set things straight in The Big Apple. When she crashes into a charming stranger who offers to help, her faith in humanity and God’s handiwork is restored. But when secrets unravel and the final pages have been turned, what’s too good to be true may turn a blossoming love story into a star-crossed tragedy.
Andrew Ketner has it charm, good looks, a sizable inheritance, and an almost-guaranteed future at the helm of one of New York City’s most prestigious publishing houses. While life looks perfect from the outside, living in the shadow of an overbearing father while reeling from the faith-crushing weight of personal loss has left him feeling like he’s hardly living at all. When he stumbles across a discarded manuscript he is convinced will be an instant success, it sparks an ember of hope he thought was long extinguished. The world looks brighter until he finds himself thrown into an impossible situation. Will he protect his family’s legacy or end up falling in love with the woman whose novel they’ve unwittingly plagiarized?
Aspiring author Charlie Blaire never expected to stumble across her own novel at her favorite bookstore. Except this novel isn’t hers. Published under someone else’s name, the book she wrote to cope with the loss of her missionary parents is already topping charts. Irate, confused, and determined to regain the rights to her book, Charlie leaves her idyllic life in the countryside of Vermont to set things straight in The Big Apple. When she crashes into a charming stranger who offers to help, her faith in humanity and God’s handiwork is restored. But when secrets unravel and the final pages have been turned, what’s too good to be true may turn a blossoming love story into a star-crossed tragedy.
Andrew Ketner has it charm, good looks, a sizable inheritance, and an almost-guaranteed future at the helm of one of New York City’s most prestigious publishing houses. While life looks perfect from the outside, living in the shadow of an overbearing father while reeling from the faith-crushing weight of personal loss has left him feeling like he’s hardly living at all. When he stumbles across a discarded manuscript he is convinced will be an instant success, it sparks an ember of hope he thought was long extinguished. The world looks brighter until he finds himself thrown into an impossible situation. Will he protect his family’s legacy or end up falling in love with the woman whose novel they’ve unwittingly plagiarized?
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2023
211 people are currently reading
2410 people want to read
About the author
Erica Dansereau
5 books222 followersErica Dansereau is an award-winning author known for her compelling storytelling and exploration of faith. She currently resides in Idaho with her husband and children. Aside from reading and writing books, Erica loves spending quality time with her family and friends, embarking on new adventures, and savoring a nice cup of coffee or tea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
October 18, 2025
5 stars. I’m not generally a fan of romance novels, even less of rom-coms—though to be fair, I’ve read very few. But I’m not a fan of modern romance, plain and simple. However, the synopsis of this book 100% hooked me. I got as far as “author” and “publishing house” and was sold. And the book did NOT disappoint.
I didn’t realize this was a rom-com until one of the authors said so, at which point I was already reading the book. To be honest, it didn’t feel like a rom-com to me. Like I said, I’ve read barely any. But this novel felt deeper and more serious than the rom-coms I’ve read. It was humorous—the sarcasm and banter was awesome—but it was more sweet and thought-provoking than shallow and funny. And I loved that! The writing style fit the characters and atmosphere PERFECTLY. It was modern, but with a touch of old soul/dark academia, sprinkled over with autumnal feels and big city magic. The setting/atmosphere was probably 35% of my favourite part of the book. I LOVED IT. I didn’t realize how much I love the big city aesthetic before. And turns out I am a HUGE fan of what is apparently the “old money” aesthetic?? Anyways. I adore the book aesthetics. Also, the bookstore was a small bit but it was awesome too.
Speaking of sarcasm, the characters were fluent in that. Specifically Charlie. I don’t usually like “spunky, sassy heroines.” I find them pushy, mouthy, and overreacting. But Charlie was actually pretty cool. She stood up for the right—including her own rights—but she was smart and respectful, and if she did tend to overreact, she generally had reasons for it… and she apologized handsomely. Her heart for people absolutely shone, and I loved that. Also, she didn’t spend the whole book worrying about how pretty she was or wasn’t. Woohoo!
Andrew was a huge surprise at first. He is so humble and humorously self-deprecating that I didn’t even realize he was a super wealthy, handsome, big-deal guy until Charlie discovered it. (I’m not mad at not finding out the MMC’s looks until after, because I am sick of guys “accidentally” seeing themselves and narrating how they look in their first few sentences.) He was cute and clutzy, and he meant well. Don’t get me wrong, he messed up A LOT—but he had actual real valid motivation, and he tried at least. I don’t love him as a romantic hero, but I really appreciate his character arc a lot—it’s very relatable.
His father was super nice too—I like how though their relationship was tense they obviously loved each other and worked to fix things on BOTH sides. And I was expecting Ada to be the nasty, stuck-up girl—was she ever a surprise!! She is so sweet and lovely, I totally need more of her!! (Charlie’s friend Nate sounds pretty cool too… just sayin’…)
The plot was also another favourite part of the book for me. A big publishing house accidentally plagiarizes a budding author’s newest book? All through some gargantuan mistake because several people won’t communicate? EPIC. The author comes down to get her book back and is met by the son of the company’s owner, who accidentally started the whole thing and is desperate to save the company—and his father? FASCINATING. The two accidentally kinda fall in love and try to hang out in posh city locations while kinda ignoring the whole situation and doing legal navigation each on their own side? UN-PUT-DOWN-ABLE. Throw in a huge climax at a fancy party… misunderstandings and disagreements and unexpected resolutions and a P&P-worthy BUT THEY WILL GET TOGETHER, RIGHT???… oh, yeah, the plot never stops and I love it. I’m not a fan of the miscommunication trope AT ALL—but as I said, in this case, it made sense, and neither one wanted it, and I appreciated the rest of the book enough to ignore it. ;P And while it’s not my favourite romance… Andrew has a lot of issues and feels quite less mature than Charlie, specifically spiritually-speaking… it’s cute and they’re happy and it’s just a book, so whatever. I don’t recommend it in real life, but I enjoyed the whole rest of the book so much I had to wink at it. Which should tell you how good the book is, because those kind of theological issues really can break a book for me.
Speaking of theology, boy, did I ever love the message of this book. As someone who struggles with depression and overwhelm, and who spent this year in panic/anxiety over the future, I identified HEAVILY with Andrew.And I didn’t even lose my mother. I absolutely loved the message of standing up and doing your duty and fixing your mistakes and moving forwards. That was another 35% of why I loved the book so much.
So, yeah. Definitely not my usual genre of book, but I am so grateful I got to try it, and it really made my day. I look forwards eagerly to the next books in the series!
Content: possibly euphemisms?? Non-detailed longing, hugging, kissing, etc. Mention of wine. A & C hang out together alone all the time, including at his home. Ada almost accuses Andrew of having a girlfriend and “sleeping over,” which he refutes.
A Favourite Quote: Who was I to try to help anyone? I’ve always struggled to give my full self to anything, forever captured by the fear of not being good enough should I truly give it my best effort. Self-sabotage and incompetence have always felt like a form of protection. In reality, I’m recognizing that I’ve only imprisoned myself. It’s time I grow up. Man up. Change for the better.
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: We had showers last night, enveloping Pleasant Hollow in a delicate gown of raindrops and mist. The first touches of winter have officially moved in and made themselves comfortable. Winter has scattered the white and gray paint on her palette far and wide, her icy breath already tingeing everything with frost. Her chilly touch is just a reminder that the season of darkness and rest is coming. The deep, cold, often lonely months will soon settle in, both inside and out.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “I’m so sorry, Andrew,” I blurt out. “You were right. I should have trusted you. I don’t want this to come between us. I should have waited . . .”
A startled, clean-shaven face peeks around the bouquet, a face decidedly not Andrew’s bearded one. “Charlie Blaire?” he says, clearly afraid I’m going to launch myself into his arms after that speech.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
I didn’t realize this was a rom-com until one of the authors said so, at which point I was already reading the book. To be honest, it didn’t feel like a rom-com to me. Like I said, I’ve read barely any. But this novel felt deeper and more serious than the rom-coms I’ve read. It was humorous—the sarcasm and banter was awesome—but it was more sweet and thought-provoking than shallow and funny. And I loved that! The writing style fit the characters and atmosphere PERFECTLY. It was modern, but with a touch of old soul/dark academia, sprinkled over with autumnal feels and big city magic. The setting/atmosphere was probably 35% of my favourite part of the book. I LOVED IT. I didn’t realize how much I love the big city aesthetic before. And turns out I am a HUGE fan of what is apparently the “old money” aesthetic?? Anyways. I adore the book aesthetics. Also, the bookstore was a small bit but it was awesome too.
Speaking of sarcasm, the characters were fluent in that. Specifically Charlie. I don’t usually like “spunky, sassy heroines.” I find them pushy, mouthy, and overreacting. But Charlie was actually pretty cool. She stood up for the right—including her own rights—but she was smart and respectful, and if she did tend to overreact, she generally had reasons for it… and she apologized handsomely. Her heart for people absolutely shone, and I loved that. Also, she didn’t spend the whole book worrying about how pretty she was or wasn’t. Woohoo!
Andrew was a huge surprise at first. He is so humble and humorously self-deprecating that I didn’t even realize he was a super wealthy, handsome, big-deal guy until Charlie discovered it. (I’m not mad at not finding out the MMC’s looks until after, because I am sick of guys “accidentally” seeing themselves and narrating how they look in their first few sentences.) He was cute and clutzy, and he meant well. Don’t get me wrong, he messed up A LOT—but he had actual real valid motivation, and he tried at least. I don’t love him as a romantic hero, but I really appreciate his character arc a lot—it’s very relatable.
His father was super nice too—I like how though their relationship was tense they obviously loved each other and worked to fix things on BOTH sides. And I was expecting Ada to be the nasty, stuck-up girl—was she ever a surprise!! She is so sweet and lovely, I totally need more of her!! (Charlie’s friend Nate sounds pretty cool too… just sayin’…)
The plot was also another favourite part of the book for me. A big publishing house accidentally plagiarizes a budding author’s newest book? All through some gargantuan mistake because several people won’t communicate? EPIC. The author comes down to get her book back and is met by the son of the company’s owner, who accidentally started the whole thing and is desperate to save the company—and his father? FASCINATING. The two accidentally kinda fall in love and try to hang out in posh city locations while kinda ignoring the whole situation and doing legal navigation each on their own side? UN-PUT-DOWN-ABLE. Throw in a huge climax at a fancy party… misunderstandings and disagreements and unexpected resolutions and a P&P-worthy BUT THEY WILL GET TOGETHER, RIGHT???… oh, yeah, the plot never stops and I love it. I’m not a fan of the miscommunication trope AT ALL—but as I said, in this case, it made sense, and neither one wanted it, and I appreciated the rest of the book enough to ignore it. ;P And while it’s not my favourite romance… Andrew has a lot of issues and feels quite less mature than Charlie, specifically spiritually-speaking… it’s cute and they’re happy and it’s just a book, so whatever. I don’t recommend it in real life, but I enjoyed the whole rest of the book so much I had to wink at it. Which should tell you how good the book is, because those kind of theological issues really can break a book for me.
Speaking of theology, boy, did I ever love the message of this book. As someone who struggles with depression and overwhelm, and who spent this year in panic/anxiety over the future, I identified HEAVILY with Andrew.
So, yeah. Definitely not my usual genre of book, but I am so grateful I got to try it, and it really made my day. I look forwards eagerly to the next books in the series!
Content: possibly euphemisms?? Non-detailed longing, hugging, kissing, etc. Mention of wine. A & C hang out together alone all the time, including at his home. Ada almost accuses Andrew of having a girlfriend and “sleeping over,” which he refutes.
A Favourite Quote: Who was I to try to help anyone? I’ve always struggled to give my full self to anything, forever captured by the fear of not being good enough should I truly give it my best effort. Self-sabotage and incompetence have always felt like a form of protection. In reality, I’m recognizing that I’ve only imprisoned myself. It’s time I grow up. Man up. Change for the better.
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: We had showers last night, enveloping Pleasant Hollow in a delicate gown of raindrops and mist. The first touches of winter have officially moved in and made themselves comfortable. Winter has scattered the white and gray paint on her palette far and wide, her icy breath already tingeing everything with frost. Her chilly touch is just a reminder that the season of darkness and rest is coming. The deep, cold, often lonely months will soon settle in, both inside and out.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “I’m so sorry, Andrew,” I blurt out. “You were right. I should have trusted you. I don’t want this to come between us. I should have waited . . .”
A startled, clean-shaven face peeks around the bouquet, a face decidedly not Andrew’s bearded one. “Charlie Blaire?” he says, clearly afraid I’m going to launch myself into his arms after that speech.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
October 28, 2023
To anyone who loves clean romcoms that have deep lessons, witty banter, and a heartwarming romance, The Bookish Bandit will be one of my top recommendations.
Most romcoms I’ve read have a heavy emphasis on physical attraction and little presence of faith elements. I was surprised in the best of ways to find the opposite in this book, and it was such a refreshing read.
Favorite quote: “Next time, can you just steal my heart, not my pages?”
Thank you so much to the authors for an ARC. A positive review was not required, only my honest thoughts.
Most romcoms I’ve read have a heavy emphasis on physical attraction and little presence of faith elements. I was surprised in the best of ways to find the opposite in this book, and it was such a refreshing read.
Favorite quote: “Next time, can you just steal my heart, not my pages?”
Thank you so much to the authors for an ARC. A positive review was not required, only my honest thoughts.
November 30, 2023
This book y'all 😍 The Bookish Bandit is my top fall read! It had all the cozy, bookish, coffee drinking vibes a girl could want 🍂
The romance, y'all. I loved the banter, tension, and awkward flirting between Charlie and Andrew. And honestly, I love seeing characters immediately spark. I'm so down for realizing the person you just met may actually be your one and only 🥰 both Andrew and Charlie leapt off of the pages for me and I couldn't wait for them to kiss! Ofc the complication of a stolen manuscript added SO much and I was zipping through the chapters waiting to see how Andrew and Charlie would play out!
Something that I really enjoyed and appreciated was Charlie's faith. It felt so natural for her character. She impacted those around her with her faith, and I loved seeing that happen in Andrew's character. It added so much to have that natural faith in this story.
I've been looking for faith-filled fall fiction and I'm so glad I got the chance to read #thebookishbandit! Highly recommend 💕
The romance, y'all. I loved the banter, tension, and awkward flirting between Charlie and Andrew. And honestly, I love seeing characters immediately spark. I'm so down for realizing the person you just met may actually be your one and only 🥰 both Andrew and Charlie leapt off of the pages for me and I couldn't wait for them to kiss! Ofc the complication of a stolen manuscript added SO much and I was zipping through the chapters waiting to see how Andrew and Charlie would play out!
Something that I really enjoyed and appreciated was Charlie's faith. It felt so natural for her character. She impacted those around her with her faith, and I loved seeing that happen in Andrew's character. It added so much to have that natural faith in this story.
I've been looking for faith-filled fall fiction and I'm so glad I got the chance to read #thebookishbandit! Highly recommend 💕
September 17, 2024
This was such a delightful fall read! I'm just not a super big romcom reader, mainly because I'm too much of a problem solver and have a easy solution for the problem and get aggravated when the characters don't seem to see the super simple solution. XD
But overall, I really enjoyed the fallish and bookish vibes of this story!
Characters:
Charlie was sweet and impulsive...lol...which made for some rather comical scenes and I love it!
Andrew was a dear! I understood his feelings of being put between a rock and hard place but was internally screaming for him to tell her the truth the whole time.
Lets not forget Sergio! He was adorable!
Themes:
Learning that faith isn't easy sometimes, if it was it wouldn't be faith. The theme of finding your faith again after loss was beautiful. I've never personally experienced that type of loss but I definitely resonated with a lot of the same emotions during other situations in my life.
Language:
N/A
Romance:
It is a romcom but the kisses are barely described. Very clean.
Violence/Gore:
N/A
Overall:
I enjoyed the fall vibes so much! A great read for this time of year! The bookish vibes, even Andrew's cheesy puns were cute...lol...
This is a delightful read! Especially if you like romcoms. ;)
Recommend for ages 15+
But overall, I really enjoyed the fallish and bookish vibes of this story!
Characters:
Charlie was sweet and impulsive...lol...which made for some rather comical scenes and I love it!
Andrew was a dear! I understood his feelings of being put between a rock and hard place but was internally screaming for him to tell her the truth the whole time.
Lets not forget Sergio! He was adorable!
Themes:
Learning that faith isn't easy sometimes, if it was it wouldn't be faith. The theme of finding your faith again after loss was beautiful. I've never personally experienced that type of loss but I definitely resonated with a lot of the same emotions during other situations in my life.
Language:
N/A
Romance:
It is a romcom but the kisses are barely described. Very clean.
Violence/Gore:
N/A
Overall:
I enjoyed the fall vibes so much! A great read for this time of year! The bookish vibes, even Andrew's cheesy puns were cute...lol...
This is a delightful read! Especially if you like romcoms. ;)
Recommend for ages 15+
October 29, 2023
Actual Rating: 4.5 ⭐
Edit: This is for readers who want clean romance with all the cozy aesthetics, witty banter and great chemistry between the two characters, lots of pining and longing, and deep, meaningful internal struggles. PLUS, what I would describe as a quirky female lead that's not annoying and an actual decent, gentleman.
I would recommend this book to everyone. Pretty much finished this in more or less 12 hrs. I don't read a lot of romance, but this was absolutely unputdownable.
I am still so amazed that I got to read such an amazing book in a genre I actively try to avoid because of the degeneracy that's often present in a lot of rom-com books (among other genres), but the freshness of how CLEAN this is and with the addition of the Christian themes, this one just hits closer to home.
Lots of witter banter that hits just the right spot and is never awkward, something I find other books fall short of. Deep, meaningful characters and internal struggles. It's been a while since I've enjoyed a book and slammed my fist on the mattress. I love the main characters. I find parts of myself in both Charlie and Andrew as both a writer and a Christian. Ultimately, my heart goes out to Andrew. And if anyone ought to find a "walking green flag," it's Andrew Ketner, ladies and gentlemen. The one and only.
Received an advance reader copy for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Edit: This is for readers who want clean romance with all the cozy aesthetics, witty banter and great chemistry between the two characters, lots of pining and longing, and deep, meaningful internal struggles. PLUS, what I would describe as a quirky female lead that's not annoying and an actual decent, gentleman.
I would recommend this book to everyone. Pretty much finished this in more or less 12 hrs. I don't read a lot of romance, but this was absolutely unputdownable.
I am still so amazed that I got to read such an amazing book in a genre I actively try to avoid because of the degeneracy that's often present in a lot of rom-com books (among other genres), but the freshness of how CLEAN this is and with the addition of the Christian themes, this one just hits closer to home.
Lots of witter banter that hits just the right spot and is never awkward, something I find other books fall short of. Deep, meaningful characters and internal struggles. It's been a while since I've enjoyed a book and slammed my fist on the mattress. I love the main characters. I find parts of myself in both Charlie and Andrew as both a writer and a Christian. Ultimately, my heart goes out to Andrew. And if anyone ought to find a "walking green flag," it's Andrew Ketner, ladies and gentlemen. The one and only.
Received an advance reader copy for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 10, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
What a delightful story! I have to admit that once I started and got introduced to the characters and their dilemma, I was so nervous about how it would all pan out. Plagiarism is a big deal, but when it’s done by accident? Oh boy haha.
I thought the story was fun, albeit stressful at times 😂, but I was rooting for both Charlie and Andrew to figure everything out. All the lying had my heart in a vice-grip (well done you two!); I wish it could have been resolved quicker because lying stresses me out, but it made sense for the plot. I was very relieved by the ending haha and how everything was explained. The theme of forgiveness on all fronts was refreshing, too!
And the Christian elements were beautifully done. I loved how Charlie lived out her faith & inspired Andrew to do the same.
I honestly feel like this would make a GREAT movie!
Overall, this was a sweet romance that was both wholesome and held a lot of depth. Lots of beautiful prose, too.
Well done, Erica & Britt! I can’t wait to see what you both come up with next!
What a delightful story! I have to admit that once I started and got introduced to the characters and their dilemma, I was so nervous about how it would all pan out. Plagiarism is a big deal, but when it’s done by accident? Oh boy haha.
I thought the story was fun, albeit stressful at times 😂, but I was rooting for both Charlie and Andrew to figure everything out. All the lying had my heart in a vice-grip (well done you two!); I wish it could have been resolved quicker because lying stresses me out, but it made sense for the plot. I was very relieved by the ending haha and how everything was explained. The theme of forgiveness on all fronts was refreshing, too!
And the Christian elements were beautifully done. I loved how Charlie lived out her faith & inspired Andrew to do the same.
I honestly feel like this would make a GREAT movie!
Overall, this was a sweet romance that was both wholesome and held a lot of depth. Lots of beautiful prose, too.
Well done, Erica & Britt! I can’t wait to see what you both come up with next!
January 28, 2025
What a delightful story! It was more of a unique premise love story/rom com, on how a lack of communication with unintentional deception leads to trouble big time in a sense....but how a resolution and reconciliation can still occur. I enjoyed literary references such as Jack Sparrow, Anne of Green Gables (the fmc was a lot like her actually with her hot headed and impulsive ways ;) As the tangled messes keep adding up, I wondered how would this get straightened out eventually? as I presumed it would of course; done beautifully :D
I liked how the characters matured as she admitted and prayed for help with this area ;especially our female Charlie (short for Charlotte which I would have preferred..lol as the more elegant and a favourite name!) But that's just me as neither here nor there.
The tremendous and excellent inclusion of spiritual elements were so fitting indeed as she was human like us all, but she trusted the Lord with her dilemmas with a strong faith. This is an ideal story for any young adults, teens, whoever that I certainly can recommend!
Even though I'm not in that demographic anymore, I wanted to check it out anyway to merely enjoy a more light hearted story per say at times but to also to know what these authors were like, and to be help sales/support them besides as I try to for newer if I feel they are worthwhile as these are.
I liked how the characters matured as she admitted and prayed for help with this area ;especially our female Charlie (short for Charlotte which I would have preferred..lol as the more elegant and a favourite name!) But that's just me as neither here nor there.
The tremendous and excellent inclusion of spiritual elements were so fitting indeed as she was human like us all, but she trusted the Lord with her dilemmas with a strong faith. This is an ideal story for any young adults, teens, whoever that I certainly can recommend!
Even though I'm not in that demographic anymore, I wanted to check it out anyway to merely enjoy a more light hearted story per say at times but to also to know what these authors were like, and to be help sales/support them besides as I try to for newer if I feel they are worthwhile as these are.
November 28, 2023
4.5✨
I soooooo enjoyed this story! The fall vibes were just right, and the romance had the perfect banter that I love! (Also, the food descriptions had my mouth watering constantly! 😋)
Now, that doesn't mean I wasn't grinding my teeth and yelling at Andrew to just tell Charlie the freaking truth! 😂 But I genuinely understood the conflict he felt, the fear behind his actions. And I think that's part of what made this book so good. I understood both the MCs emotional conflicts and motivations—I felt connected to them and the fears driving them. It made my own emotions flare when they made the wrong choices. And that's exactly what I like in a book! I want to feel with the characters.
Beyond that, I just genuinely adored the romance between these two characters. They were goofy and lovestruck in all the right ways for me. Andrew is super swoony in all the right ways; he's got just enough of the morally gray vibe my heart longs for in a MC, yet he's a cinnamon roll deep down to his core. Charlie is overdramatic and impetuous, but not in an obnoxious way. She's silly but genuine. She's impulsive but tenderhearted. She's foolhardy and that's what gives her the gumption to do something about the situation she's in. All the traits that could make her frustrating also make her endearing, and I think that's where that perfect balance lies.
Anyway, if you need a swoony fall romance, look no further!
I soooooo enjoyed this story! The fall vibes were just right, and the romance had the perfect banter that I love! (Also, the food descriptions had my mouth watering constantly! 😋)
Now, that doesn't mean I wasn't grinding my teeth and yelling at Andrew to just tell Charlie the freaking truth! 😂 But I genuinely understood the conflict he felt, the fear behind his actions. And I think that's part of what made this book so good. I understood both the MCs emotional conflicts and motivations—I felt connected to them and the fears driving them. It made my own emotions flare when they made the wrong choices. And that's exactly what I like in a book! I want to feel with the characters.
Beyond that, I just genuinely adored the romance between these two characters. They were goofy and lovestruck in all the right ways for me. Andrew is super swoony in all the right ways; he's got just enough of the morally gray vibe my heart longs for in a MC, yet he's a cinnamon roll deep down to his core. Charlie is overdramatic and impetuous, but not in an obnoxious way. She's silly but genuine. She's impulsive but tenderhearted. She's foolhardy and that's what gives her the gumption to do something about the situation she's in. All the traits that could make her frustrating also make her endearing, and I think that's where that perfect balance lies.
Anyway, if you need a swoony fall romance, look no further!
November 14, 2023
•steal my heart, not my pages•
This might just be the cutest tagline I’ve ever read!
The Bookish Bandit was such a delight to read! I love these authors’ works individually (as well as their sweet friendship!), so finding an ARC in my inbox sent me over the moon!
Set in NYC amid the dreamy autumn aesthetic is this heartfelt story that explores anxiety, grief, worth, and trusting in God.
The premise is built on every author’s worst nightmare—a plagiarized manuscript—thus leading to the rocky meet-cute between Charlie & Andrew. Their growth & development over the story along with the slow burn, angst of their romance were well done.
And something I absolutely LOVED was the subtle weaving in of book references! You’ll find both Britt & Erica’s books make a cameo appearance along with a certain Sweater Weather series. 🤭
If you’re looking for a cosy autumnal rom-com with lovable characters, the perfect Hallmark aesthetic, sweet romance, and a strong faith message, I highly recommend this one!
*I received an ARC copy of this book from the authors. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
This might just be the cutest tagline I’ve ever read!
The Bookish Bandit was such a delight to read! I love these authors’ works individually (as well as their sweet friendship!), so finding an ARC in my inbox sent me over the moon!
Set in NYC amid the dreamy autumn aesthetic is this heartfelt story that explores anxiety, grief, worth, and trusting in God.
The premise is built on every author’s worst nightmare—a plagiarized manuscript—thus leading to the rocky meet-cute between Charlie & Andrew. Their growth & development over the story along with the slow burn, angst of their romance were well done.
And something I absolutely LOVED was the subtle weaving in of book references! You’ll find both Britt & Erica’s books make a cameo appearance along with a certain Sweater Weather series. 🤭
If you’re looking for a cosy autumnal rom-com with lovable characters, the perfect Hallmark aesthetic, sweet romance, and a strong faith message, I highly recommend this one!
*I received an ARC copy of this book from the authors. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 12, 2024
This book has left me with all the fall feels! I absolutely loved the writing styles and the dual pov hits home for me. The characters were likable from the start and I felt that I immediately was invested in the story. There is definitely some intrigue from the beginning! The flow of the story leaves you with enough information to stay invested but keeps you guessing how everything will come together. I loved it so much!
I highly recommend this read if you like:
🍂 nyc in fall
🍂 coffee comparisons
🍂 friends quotes
🍂 baking
🍂 dog rescue and training
🍂 Christian themes/values
🍂 coming back to christ
🍂 dual pov
🍂 a lovely ending
“The Bookish Bandit” is being released on 11/14! It has definitely earned a permanent spot on my bookshelf!
I am honored to have been gifted an advanced readers copy by the authors @ericadansereauauthor and @britthowardauthor 🤎 thank you so much!
I highly recommend this read if you like:
🍂 nyc in fall
🍂 coffee comparisons
🍂 friends quotes
🍂 baking
🍂 dog rescue and training
🍂 Christian themes/values
🍂 coming back to christ
🍂 dual pov
🍂 a lovely ending
“The Bookish Bandit” is being released on 11/14! It has definitely earned a permanent spot on my bookshelf!
I am honored to have been gifted an advanced readers copy by the authors @ericadansereauauthor and @britthowardauthor 🤎 thank you so much!
October 27, 2023
This book was pure fun. A classic, NYC rom-com that reminded me of how I feel watching How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, or You've Got Mail.
The strongest element of this book is the fascinating premise, and the plot does not disappoint. Andrew is an especially lovable and relatable protagonist.
I had the whole book finished in under 48 hours... It was that hard to put down!
I received an advanced copy from the authors in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
The strongest element of this book is the fascinating premise, and the plot does not disappoint. Andrew is an especially lovable and relatable protagonist.
I had the whole book finished in under 48 hours... It was that hard to put down!
I received an advanced copy from the authors in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
December 9, 2024
This story weaves together themes of love, loss, forgiveness and hope. I love the faith that is the solid ground of this novel. It reminds me of each of us and how the author of our lives is writing our stories in unconventional ways let go and trust God that’s what I learned between the pages of Charlie and Andrew’s story. You never know where he will take you or what he has planned because oh it is always so much better than anything we could ever plan for ourselves. Charlie is so impulsive and determined where Andrew is more level headed yet insecure in who is I throughly enjoyed living with these two for the past few months and I was sad to close the book but sad in a good way not wanting to leave their world I highly recommend.
November 24, 2025
This one has been in my TBR forever and I'm glad I finally got a chance to read it. It has all the perfect fall vibes and captured my attention from page one. Charlie and Andrew were so easily to fall in love with and cheer for.
I loved how faith was woven throughout the story and what love, faith and forgiveness looks like.
I loved the perfect slow burn and how much Charlie and Andrew truly cared for each other despite so many things keeping them apart.
If you are looking for a sweet faith filled romance I would definitely give this one a go.
Just a sweet kiss or two (level 1 physical intimacy)
Zero swearing
Dual 1st person POV
I loved how faith was woven throughout the story and what love, faith and forgiveness looks like.
I loved the perfect slow burn and how much Charlie and Andrew truly cared for each other despite so many things keeping them apart.
If you are looking for a sweet faith filled romance I would definitely give this one a go.
Just a sweet kiss or two (level 1 physical intimacy)
Zero swearing
Dual 1st person POV
November 11, 2023
When I first read about this book, I was very much intrigued by the premise--- but also a little bit uncertain. How does one accidentally plagiarize a book... and how does an author write a character that does so and is still someone that you will root for? I admit, I couldn't wrap my head around how the authors would make this work well... but they absolutely made it work!
Charlie and Andrew were wonderfully written characters. They were flawed and make mistakes, sure... but when we get to know them and see why they make the decisions that they do, it only made me as a reader root for everything to work out for them both. Their chemistry was absolutely fantastic, and I really loved how sweet they were together--- even if they were supposed to be on opposite sides.
Beyond the love story though, I really love the messages of faith that were so beautifully woven into the story as well. As a reader, I certainly know how powerful words can be... and to see Andrew finding is way back to a faith that he had lost through the words that Charlie wrote. What a beautiful story that is! The messages of God's plans and timing made this a beautiful love story that will absolutely stick with me.
If you're looking for a fun and faith filled book with great fall vibes, this is absolutely one to check out.
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Charlie and Andrew were wonderfully written characters. They were flawed and make mistakes, sure... but when we get to know them and see why they make the decisions that they do, it only made me as a reader root for everything to work out for them both. Their chemistry was absolutely fantastic, and I really loved how sweet they were together--- even if they were supposed to be on opposite sides.
Beyond the love story though, I really love the messages of faith that were so beautifully woven into the story as well. As a reader, I certainly know how powerful words can be... and to see Andrew finding is way back to a faith that he had lost through the words that Charlie wrote. What a beautiful story that is! The messages of God's plans and timing made this a beautiful love story that will absolutely stick with me.
If you're looking for a fun and faith filled book with great fall vibes, this is absolutely one to check out.
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
November 14, 2023
I had a lovely time reading this one! If you love romance with strong faith themes, check this one out. 🤍 Thank you so much @britthowardauthor and @ericadansereauauthor for the earc of The Bookish
Bandit 🤍
I loved the premise of this story! An aspiring author, a plagiarized manuscript, a handsome stranger, and autumn in New York. I’m so here for it.
The two main characters each had such great character growth. While yes, there is blossoming love, I really appreciated that they continued to grow as individually.
This one gave me all the fall vibes and is perfect for romance readers who also love themes of faith woven into their stories.
Steam: kissing
★ ★ ★ ★/5
.
TW: past death of parents
Bandit 🤍
I loved the premise of this story! An aspiring author, a plagiarized manuscript, a handsome stranger, and autumn in New York. I’m so here for it.
The two main characters each had such great character growth. While yes, there is blossoming love, I really appreciated that they continued to grow as individually.
This one gave me all the fall vibes and is perfect for romance readers who also love themes of faith woven into their stories.
Steam: kissing
★ ★ ★ ★/5
.
TW: past death of parents
Read
November 2, 2023Our hero dug himself into quite the mess in The Bookish Bandit, but I never really stopped rooting for him through the series of miscommunications, failed efforts to clear everything up, and a bunch of lies. He had a long way to come in his character arc, but it made the last third of the book that much more satisfying when he did grow. Charlie had every right to walk away and want nothing to do with Andrew, but after acknowledging that God was up to something and must have brought them together, her lost trust in Andrew seems to have changed that trust she'd claimed to have in God's plan as well. The fallout between Andrew and her was heartwrenching even though you knew it was coming from the first chapter. The Bookish Bandit has all the fall NYC vibes, tons of romantic tension, and a wonderful message. I really enjoyed watching Andrew's metamorphosis throughout the book. The spiritual thread was lovely. There's also a side reminder to be a good listener and allow people to talk if they tell you that they have something to say!
Thank you to the authors for providing the ARC so I could write an honest review!!
Thank you to the authors for providing the ARC so I could write an honest review!!
November 13, 2024
Awww, what a cute romcom this is! It feels as autumnal as a pumpkin spice latte, as New York City-esque as a bagel with lox, and as bibliophilic as a bookstore with a cat.
One of the things I liked best about The Bookish Bandit was how naturally faith was woven into the story. Never preachy, always organic, the Christian themes were an integral part of the characters and their behavior, and I applaud how well Dansereau and Howard did that.
One of the things I liked best about The Bookish Bandit was how naturally faith was woven into the story. Never preachy, always organic, the Christian themes were an integral part of the characters and their behavior, and I applaud how well Dansereau and Howard did that.
November 17, 2023
I went into this story not knowing what to expect. I had never read any of these authors before and enjoyed the story overall. It was a little angsty—with all the lying—, but the story has excellent message on the value of honesty and repentance!
This is more a contemporary Christian romance than a rom com. Having said that, I was pleased about how the “romance” aspect went. A lot of this genre are too physical focused. There were several “noticings” (excessive of these “thoughts often make me 🙄 because they’re so awkward). As far as kissing, that was extremely minimal and not descriptive.
One scene near the end of the story rubbed me the wrong way and lowered my personal rating …SPOILER: the couple takes a trip alone together and are unmarried. It’s written specifically that they will have separate rooms, but it is also spelled out that they’ll be staying under the same roof for the first time…No one else there. To me, that was unnecessary. That seems like a setup for some serious temptation. Maybe it’s just me, but It bugged me. END OF SPOILER.
There was a lot of faith content in this book. I really appreciated Charlie’s testimony and being vocal about her Savior. I did think Andrew’s spiritual growth/or maybe salvation(?) a little vague and I wasn’t sure what was going on there exactly. Some clarity would have been good! I loved how he journaled in the story. I related to that. The grief both characters experienced was extremely well written.
Both Charlie and Andrew were realistic, flawed characters, and I liked them. If you enjoy clean contemporary Christian fiction, you’ll likely enjoy this book. I’d probably give these authors another read in the future 😊
This is more a contemporary Christian romance than a rom com. Having said that, I was pleased about how the “romance” aspect went. A lot of this genre are too physical focused. There were several “noticings” (excessive of these “thoughts often make me 🙄 because they’re so awkward). As far as kissing, that was extremely minimal and not descriptive.
One scene near the end of the story rubbed me the wrong way and lowered my personal rating …SPOILER: the couple takes a trip alone together and are unmarried. It’s written specifically that they will have separate rooms, but it is also spelled out that they’ll be staying under the same roof for the first time…No one else there. To me, that was unnecessary. That seems like a setup for some serious temptation. Maybe it’s just me, but It bugged me. END OF SPOILER.
There was a lot of faith content in this book. I really appreciated Charlie’s testimony and being vocal about her Savior. I did think Andrew’s spiritual growth/or maybe salvation(?) a little vague and I wasn’t sure what was going on there exactly. Some clarity would have been good! I loved how he journaled in the story. I related to that. The grief both characters experienced was extremely well written.
Both Charlie and Andrew were realistic, flawed characters, and I liked them. If you enjoy clean contemporary Christian fiction, you’ll likely enjoy this book. I’d probably give these authors another read in the future 😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2023
Swoon. Where do I start? Love the country girl city boy romance trope! Rom coms aren’t usually my go-to genre, but this one changed my mind. It felt reminiscent of Book Lovers by Emily Henry, but honestly I enjoyed The Bookish Bandit SO much more! I chuckled, I teared up, I felt connected to the Holy Spirit while reading and it made my heart feel good and happy. The fall cozy aesthetic vibes were just perfect and I adored the witty banter. I can picture this as a movie on PureFlix and I would love to cozy up in a blanket with some hot apple cider and cinnamon donuts and watch it! At its heart, it’s a love story and our relationship with our Creator. This was just what my heart needed! Wholesome, cute, hopeful, faith-based, romantic, and funny. 10/10 recommend.
Thank you so much for including me to be apart of your ARC team. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you so much for including me to be apart of your ARC team. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
January 4, 2024
I absolutely loved this book! Oh so good! I read it so quickly. I had heard good things about it and it definitely lived up to what I had heard. I loved Charlie and Andrew. They are so adorable. There are so many wonderful moments in this story, and comical moments. I really loved how the authors decided to keep their relationship at a slow pace even though it developed quickly. I also really loved how much faith content was in this story. Charlie has such unshakable faith in God and she shares the gospel and how to have that kind of faith with Andrew, who doesn't understand and is struggling wiht his own faith. Great Christian Romcom. I definitely recommend.
November 16, 2023
I absolutely fell in love with this book- the setting, the characters, and the storyline. Andrew’s family owns a publishing firm in NYC and he is an aspiring writer himself. One day he picks up a manuscript (after another employee threw it in the trash without reading it) and absolutely loves it. He places it with a note on his father’s desk… and his father thinks Andrew was the one who wrote it. He proceeds to publish it under a pseudonym to surprise his son. The real author (Charlie) is shocked when she sees it in a bookstore and heads to NYC to right the wrong.
This book has everything I’ve been looking for.. it’s so incredibly hard these days to find clean (but excellent) fiction and this book nails it! Think You’ve Got Mail vibes with fall in NYC, small bookstores, coffee shops, and plenty of romance. The story line was unique and hooked me as soon as Andrew picked up the manuscript from the trash!
*I was gifted an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.*
This book has everything I’ve been looking for.. it’s so incredibly hard these days to find clean (but excellent) fiction and this book nails it! Think You’ve Got Mail vibes with fall in NYC, small bookstores, coffee shops, and plenty of romance. The story line was unique and hooked me as soon as Andrew picked up the manuscript from the trash!
*I was gifted an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.*
October 31, 2023
The Bookish Bandit was a cozy romcom that I couldn’t put down. It had such a unique storyline and amazing characters (Sergio may just be my favorite ever). My heart was breaking for both characters, but especially Andrew, as he fought relatable spiritual battles and was burdened with the need to make his father proud. Charlie was such a breath of fresh air. She was likable and had such a fun personality. The faith content in this story was beautiful, Charlie often prayed to God and shared her faith with Andrew in such a graceful way. Their adventures together in New York City were adorable, and it really will make you fall in love with them as a couple. If you love romcom books that end with a smile, this is a perfect read for you.
I received an arc copy for free, but these opinions are my own
I received an arc copy for free, but these opinions are my own
July 7, 2024
I’m a sucker for great descriptions in books, and The Bookish Bandit did NOT disappoint! The fall vibes were vibing. I was fully immersed. The descriptions of Vermont, NYC, the dogs, even the food, were just wonderful. This is probably my favorite fall romance yet. Was it completely realistic? I’m not sure... but I still loved it. I loved the themes, the enemies-to-lovers trope, all the bookish talk, and the location (there was a lot of nostalgia for me). I teared up a few times because I could relate to the losses the characters had experienced. I loved the inspirational elements and eternal hope that is missing in a lot of sweet romances I’ve read. I don’t want to give too much more away, so you’ll have to read it yourself. I will definitely be reading more by both of these authors.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 17, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ // 5 stars
this was such a cute, cozy read! its been one of my favorite fall romances so far, having captured my attention from the very start!
this is a closed-door read with Christian themes that follows Charlie and Andrew through their own stories of writing 📖 until they ultimately clash in the craziest, but cutest way!
the slow-burn here was SO stinkin’ sweet 😍🥹 and, without spoiling, the main ‘conflict’ in the book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time i was reading 🤭💖 chapter 35 was wonderfully sweet! also, i really ended up enjoying Ava..thats all i will say for no spoilers! this read was amazing 💛
this was such a cute, cozy read! its been one of my favorite fall romances so far, having captured my attention from the very start!
this is a closed-door read with Christian themes that follows Charlie and Andrew through their own stories of writing 📖 until they ultimately clash in the craziest, but cutest way!
the slow-burn here was SO stinkin’ sweet 😍🥹 and, without spoiling, the main ‘conflict’ in the book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time i was reading 🤭💖 chapter 35 was wonderfully sweet! also, i really ended up enjoying Ava..thats all i will say for no spoilers! this read was amazing 💛
October 28, 2023
I just loved this book! It’s adorable, has lots of witty banter between the main characters, but it also has a lot of heart while the MMC tackles some deep stuff in his life.
BIG plus for me is that this is a CLEAN novel. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to anyone I know, even my nieces who are younger. Spice in a romance novel is not something that I am comfortable with and I often find myself skipping pages or even chapters in other books, so I just felt like I could completely enjoy this book.
I received an advanced readers copy but opinions are my own.
BIG plus for me is that this is a CLEAN novel. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to anyone I know, even my nieces who are younger. Spice in a romance novel is not something that I am comfortable with and I often find myself skipping pages or even chapters in other books, so I just felt like I could completely enjoy this book.
I received an advanced readers copy but opinions are my own.
March 13, 2024
This was such a fun, sweet, and cozy romance! As an author myself, I loved all writing and book elements! 😍 Charlie and Andrew had their fair share of hurdles to get through, and I appreciated that the author let them make mistakes and not get off easy for them. I also loved the faith aspects. The relationships between characters, the exploration of NYC, the fight for her rights to her book, the growing romance, the adorable dogs, and the baking all made for a great, clean romance! 😆
November 30, 2023
☕️☕️☕️☕️/5
The autumn vibes and the banter were top notch!
I really wanted to absolutely love this book, but the first half was a bit slow for me. I was frustrated with Andrew for not telling Charlie the truth. He had so many opportunities to do so, and never took the chance. I understood his fears and the risk he would be taking by doing so, so I felt that emotional side. But I felt like they wasted too much time by lying and hiding the truth from one another that it just didn’t quite work for me as much as I like have hoped.
I liked Charlie and I ached for what she was going through, especially in her grief after such a tragic loss and then losing that story and herself all over again. But I also felt like she was a bit harsh and impulsive at times. Again, I understood where she was coming from, but for speaking a lot about faith and trust in God, she never really acted in that belief until the end.
I loved the small moments between them and the love that blossomed there. And the way they helped each other in their grief and pain was beautiful. I adored that final big moment at the gala, all the perfect moments with them there was like finally taking that breath you’ve been waiting for. And I felt that contented smile overtake my face. And then I hurt on the inside for all the pain that was caused there too. I might have even shed a tear or two…
The most beautiful thing about this book was the story of loss, suffering and grief and how it’s so magical when we have faith and trust with God and how healing comes from that. TBB had such a powerful message and I found comfort in that and this beautiful story.
Be sure to pick it up for yourself!
The autumn vibes and the banter were top notch!
I really wanted to absolutely love this book, but the first half was a bit slow for me. I was frustrated with Andrew for not telling Charlie the truth. He had so many opportunities to do so, and never took the chance. I understood his fears and the risk he would be taking by doing so, so I felt that emotional side. But I felt like they wasted too much time by lying and hiding the truth from one another that it just didn’t quite work for me as much as I like have hoped.
I liked Charlie and I ached for what she was going through, especially in her grief after such a tragic loss and then losing that story and herself all over again. But I also felt like she was a bit harsh and impulsive at times. Again, I understood where she was coming from, but for speaking a lot about faith and trust in God, she never really acted in that belief until the end.
I loved the small moments between them and the love that blossomed there. And the way they helped each other in their grief and pain was beautiful. I adored that final big moment at the gala, all the perfect moments with them there was like finally taking that breath you’ve been waiting for. And I felt that contented smile overtake my face. And then I hurt on the inside for all the pain that was caused there too. I might have even shed a tear or two…
The most beautiful thing about this book was the story of loss, suffering and grief and how it’s so magical when we have faith and trust with God and how healing comes from that. TBB had such a powerful message and I found comfort in that and this beautiful story.
Be sure to pick it up for yourself!
December 3, 2023
What a sweet, comforting, lovely book. I had absolutly no doubt that this would be a special story, and now that I've finished it, I am happy to say that it met above and beyond every expectation I could have had.
Britt and Erica are both so talented and I really believe God has gifted them with the ability to write such heartwarming, hopeful stories. You can sense the love and enthusiasm that went into writing this on every page.
The Bookish Bandit has all the feel good emotions of a Hallmark movie with the depth and truth of what we all enjoy in a Christian novel. The romance is as a sweet as Charlie's butterscotch cookies, and the depictions of grief, guilt, and hopelessness feel very relateable and very real.
This book deserves to be on bookshelves, and I hope to see it there one day 🍁❤️
Britt and Erica are both so talented and I really believe God has gifted them with the ability to write such heartwarming, hopeful stories. You can sense the love and enthusiasm that went into writing this on every page.
The Bookish Bandit has all the feel good emotions of a Hallmark movie with the depth and truth of what we all enjoy in a Christian novel. The romance is as a sweet as Charlie's butterscotch cookies, and the depictions of grief, guilt, and hopelessness feel very relateable and very real.
This book deserves to be on bookshelves, and I hope to see it there one day 🍁❤️
December 6, 2023
This was such a cute book! I felt all sorts of emotions reading this book. The story line was really creative and not something I have read before. Charlie composed herself so much better than I would have if I found out a major publishing company plagiarized my book. Despite all of the drama that went on throughout the book my favorite part was the romance with Charlie and Andrew, it was so sweet and wholesome. Adding the Biblical elements to their relationship and lives was really refreshing. I definitely recommend this book.
November 14, 2023
This is a story of a budding author, Charlie, whose unpublished manuscript gets unintentionally plagiarised by the publishing firm Andrew works for. The two meet, Charlie not knowing who Andrew really is, and as they start to fall for each other, it adds a whole new meaning to the word 'complicated'.
This book was perfection from beginning to end, I absolutely loved it. I loved the concept of the book and it was an emotional ride watching them work things out.
I loved the main characters - Charlie and Andrew. I don't know how you couldn't and the faith element gave the book deeper meaning, which was really touching.
Perfectly written and the perfect fall/winter read!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review and I honestly loved it. Thank you for the opportunity to read it Erica and Britt! It warmed my heart! 🤎
This book was perfection from beginning to end, I absolutely loved it. I loved the concept of the book and it was an emotional ride watching them work things out.
I loved the main characters - Charlie and Andrew. I don't know how you couldn't and the faith element gave the book deeper meaning, which was really touching.
Perfectly written and the perfect fall/winter read!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review and I honestly loved it. Thank you for the opportunity to read it Erica and Britt! It warmed my heart! 🤎
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